The earliest Parker Price list that I have that has a grade designation is 1882. This price list uses the term "Quality" along with the letter designation for grade. The price list from 1878 does not list a grade, only a description of each gun along with the price of the gun. Examples below.
"Finest Damascus Steel Barrels, Finest English Walnut Stock, Gold Mounted, Finest Checking and Engraving, combined with finest workmanship and finish throughout, Skeleton Buytt Plate and Patent Fore-ned Lock, Straight or Pistol Grip: No. 10 or 12 Gauge. $300.00." This was the most expensive Parker gun at that time, It would be comparable to a Grade A.
"Plain Twist Barrels, no Engraving or Checking. Pistol Grip; No 12 Gauge. $55.00." "Ditto with Straight Grip, $50.00." This was the lowest grade comparable to a Grade 0.
The price listed in the Order Book for these early guns is what determines the grade. What else could they be called other than Dollar Grade guns?
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